As the summer is approaching, it is important to know that those who love boating should update their knowledge about how to stay safe while boating. Each year there are several cases of boating accidents in the US, for instance, a recent boating accident news in California reported in 14th January 2019, two men drowned in Topaz Lake, California. According to the US Coast Guard stats released in 2017 stated that boating fatalities totaled 658, although the number decreased from 2016, however, it is vital to take precautionary measure to save a life.
There are several causes of boating accidents that one must understand to stay safe while boating:
- Lack of Attention of the Operator:
There are many cases when the boat operator is not attentive in monitoring the boat or about other factors such as weathering conditions or unsafe objects around the boat. As the weather conditions at sea are unpredictable, the operator should be aware of the early signs of such hazardous situations in the water. Moreover, sometimes the person designated to watch for such signs lacks proper lookout.
- Inexperienced Operators:
According to the annual report published by US Coast Guard, inexperienced boat operators remained the third most common cause of boating accidents. This does not only include the understanding of the boat and rules of navigation but also handling emergency situations.
- Exceeding Speed Limit:
As we are supposed to drive at safe speed on the roadway, in the same way, it is very important to operate the boat at safe speed. This allows the operator to respond to the dangerous conditions, and prevent colliding with other boats in the water and even capsizing.
- Impaired Operation:
Operating a boat while being under the influence of alcohol or drug is a serious cause of boating accidents. Massachusetts and Rhode Island have set the limit of alcohol for boaters to 0.08 percent which is the same for the automobile drivers.
- Failure of Equipment:
Boat maintenance is very crucial for safe boat operation. If an accident occurs because of a failed equipment in the boat, the responsibility lies on the owner of the boat. So, regular inspection of the boat and ensuring that it is in good condition is of vital importance.
- Violation of Navigational Rules:
As there are rules of traffic on the road, there are navigational rules for the boaters. Breaking these rules is also one of the big cause of boating accidents which lead to colliding with other boats and even running the boat aground. If the boater does not follow navigational rules and causes injury to others on the boat, the person may face a personal injury lawsuit.
- Inability to be Mindful of Dangerous Waters:
Situations in the water can change dramatically in no time such as weather and force of waves. Although, these conditions are very difficult and sometimes cannot be anticipated, however, the boaters are supposed to be mindful of these conditions with the help of wind patterns and weather alerts.
If you or you’re loved has suffered injuries in a boating accident caused by other party’s fault, you can seek a lawsuit against them with the help of a Pacific Attorney Group.
